Prince William has received a £1million pledge as landlords have backed his homelessness project.
On a visit to Sheffield today, the Prince of Wales will unveil two new major commitments to help prevent homelessness in the city.
Homebase has announced it will pledge £1million worth of support to those on the brink of or experiencing homelessness.
The retailer has also agreed to provide up to 1,500 "Home Starter Packs".
Prince William will step out in Sheffield later today
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The "Home Starter Packs" will likely include paint, furniture, flooring and furnishings.
They are intended to reduce the risk of future homelessness.
Each starter pack will be created in consultation with the residents moving into accommodation, alongside housing experts.
Damian McGloughlin, the CEO of Homebase said: "At Homebase, we know how important it is to have a place to call home, and we’re committed to co-producing Home Starter Packs with the people who will be using them.
The Prince of Wales launched his Homewards initiative last yearGetty"Over the next five years, we’ll help end the cycle of homelessness by supporting a fresh start with a fresh lick of paint, and all their home needs."
Housing campaigner Kwajo Tweneboa, who has experienced homelessness with his own family, is also helping to create the packs.
Tweneboa said: "Safe, permanent and secure housing is paramount to ensure homelessness does not become part of a family’s story.
"It’s an honour to be part of the work with Homebase and Homewards to help ensure that families who are struggling can have somewhere to live that feels like home. From there they can build the foundations to really thrive."
Prince William is committed to ending homelessness
PAIn Sheffield, family homelessness has been an increasing issue in recent years.
To help address this, Homewards will focus on opening more affordable homes from across the rented sector.
Today, landlords from the city have collectively pledged 33 three and four-bedroom properties for families on the brink of or experiencing homelessness in Sheffield.
They will work with Homewards to support both tenants and landlords to sustain tenancies.
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Prince William has received a £1million pledge as landlords have backed his project
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Today’s announcements aim to inspire other landlords to provide support in Sheffield and beyond.
Amanda Berry, the CEO of The Royal Foundation said: "Bringing together local and national partners to develop new solutions is vital if we want to end homelessness.
"Through this major investment from Homebase, and support from local landlords, people will be able to create safe, comfortable and secure homes for themselves and their families to thrive.
"We are so grateful to our partners for their support and look forward to building on these foundations as we work together to demonstrate that it is possible to end the cycle of homelessness in our six Homewards locations and inspire similar projects across the UK."
